Extending 220 miles n. from the western boundary of Los Angeles County to mid-Monterey County, the nearly 2 million acres of Los Padres National Forest cover terrain ranging from coastal areas through semidesert to pine-timbered elevations of almost 9,000 feet. Within this region are the Ventana, Silver Peak, Chumash, Sespe, Garcia, Matilija, Machesna, San Rafael, Santa Lucia and Dick Smith wilderness areas.

Because of diverse terrain and climate, the forest encompasses a wide variety of flora and fauna. Recreational opportunities also are varied, with picnicking, camping, hiking, backpacking, horseback riding and cross-country skiing among the possibilities.

The National Forest Adventure Pass is required in some of the day-use areas, trailheads and campgrounds in Los Padres National Forest. The cost is $5 for a day pass or $30 for an annual pass. For additional information contact the Los Padres National Forest, 6750 Navigator Way, Suite 150, Goleta, CA 93117; phone (805) 968-6640.